Rising Star: Milenkovic's Journey from Vidic Fan to Premier League Contender

A Serbian central defender making waves at Nottingham Forest inevitably draws comparisons to Manchester United legend Nemanja Vidic. Nikola Milenkovic, who scored the opening goal in Forest's historic 3-2 victory at Old Trafford earlier this season, has been a revelation in the Premier League with 12 clean sheets in 28 appearances, four goals, and 140 clearances.

The Vidic Influence

"He set the standards for defenders in Serbia," Milenkovic told BBC Sport. "I grew up watching videos of his games—his leadership, sacrifice, and aggression were inspiring." Vidic, a five-time Premier League winner and two-time Player of the Season, remains the benchmark for Serbian defenders. Yet, Milenkovic is determined to carve his own legacy.

Key Stats and Achievements

• Clean Sheets: 12 in 28 games (2023/24 season)
• Goals/Assists: 4 goals, 2 assists
• Defensive Contributions: 140 clearances, 2 off the line
• Nominations: Premier League Player of the Month (March 2024)

Vidic, though never having met Milenkovic, praised his compatriot: "He’s a great representative for Serbian football. At 27, he has much more to give." Milenkovic’s tactical growth, honed during seven seasons in Serie A with Fiorentina, has been pivotal in Forest’s push for European qualification.

The Road Ahead

With Forest eyeing Champions League football and an FA Cup semi-final looming, Milenkovic’s leadership mirrors Vidic’s old-school grit. "Living for a clean sheet—that’s what I took from him," he says. But as Vidic himself insists: "The bar I set is to be broken."